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Victoria BC Tourism

Lesson 5: Parks & Beaches

Oak Bay

Uplands Park/Cattle Point
Dorset Road and Beach Drive
This 76 acres of wilderness is an oasis in an upscale residential area. There are many pathways in the park that wind through thick forest and open grassy areas. On the east end of the park and across Beach Drive is Cattle Point on the water's edge. This is a popular picnic area and scenic lookout. Boat launching is available. By taking a set of stairs, visitors will end up at Willows Beach.

Willows Beach
Beach Drive and Dalhousie Road
Located south of Cattle Point, this sandy beach is popular for sunbathing and swimming. This is a great place for kids because the water is shallow and there is a playground next door on a grassy parkland. For a quick snack there is a concession stand at the beach or for a full meal, there are restaurants two blocks away.

Gonzles Bay Beach
Crescent Rd. & Foul Bay Rd.
This small park features the Gonzales Observatory that was built in 1914 on top of Gonzales Hill. The building was used as a weather station after other larger observatories were built. The hill offers visitors a panoramic view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains in Washington. At the base of the hill, a beach is nestled in a small cove where beach combing is a favorite pastime.